Most current codes require that a 4 inch ball will not pass between the pickets. Prior codes used a 6 inch ball. Prior to that, there were few if any requirements. Codes are not retroactive, so it would depend on when the house was built, to determine which code applies(d). Thats one reason FHA is not the code police.

Most current codes require that a 4 inch ball will not pass between the pickets. Prior codes used a 6 inch ball. Prior to that, there were few if any requirements. Codes are not retroactive, so it would depend on when the house was built, to determine which code applies(d). Thats one reason FHA is not the code police.

Click to expand...

thanks bro!

its for a VA loan and i received a letter from the VA for not stipping one in the past where wide posts were visible in the photos so this one im doing now is getting the 5.0 treatment.

If you are going to get really picky, the 4 inch thing goes for the distance between the bottom rail and the deck itself. Also the bottom rail and the step treads and risers (an area that is often overlooked) the little triangle that is formed there also should not allow a 4 inch ball to pass through. The theory is that the ball represents an infants head, and the code is designed to eliminate them sticking their head through and choking/suffocating etc.

Become a Supporting Member!

AppraisersForum.com has been operating since 2000 and has become the premiere online community for real estate appraisal discussions.

If you appreciate this resource please consider becoming a supporting member. Click on the Account Upgrades link in your control panel for more info. Your profile and your posts will display a "supporting member" banner under your name and avatar.